SQUIRREL

SQUIRREL

Squirrels are small to medium-sized rodents belonging to the family Sciuridae. They are known for their bushy tails, sharp claws, and ability to climb trees with agility. Squirrels are found in various parts of the world and are particularly abundant in forested and woodland areas.

Squirrels are diurnal creatures, meaning they are primarily active during the daytime. They are most active in the morning and late afternoon, spending their time foraging for food, building nests, and engaging in social interactions. Squirrels are known for their quick movements and acrobatic leaps from tree to tree.

Their favorite environments include:

  1. Forests and Woodlands: Squirrels thrive in forested areas with abundant trees, where they find shelter, food sources, and suitable habitats for building nests. They are particularly adapted to arboreal (tree-dwelling) habitats.
  2. Urban and Suburban Areas: Some squirrel species, such as the Eastern gray squirrel, have successfully adapted to urban and suburban environments. They inhabit parks, gardens, and residential areas, often taking advantage of trees and green spaces.
  3. Parks and Gardens: Squirrels can be found in parks, botanical gardens, and other areas with trees and vegetation. These locations provide them with ample opportunities for foraging and nesting.

There are several types of squirrels, and the most common and widely recognized species include:

  1. Eastern Gray Squirrel (Sciurus carolinensis): The Eastern gray squirrel is one of the most prevalent squirrel species in North America. They have gray fur, with variations ranging from silver-gray to black. They are known for their ability to adapt to urban environments.
  2. Red Squirrel (Sciurus vulgaris): The red squirrel is native to Europe and parts of Asia. They have reddish-brown fur on their backs and white or cream-colored bellies. Red squirrels are commonly found in forests and woodlands.
  3. Fox Squirrel (Sciurus niger): Fox squirrels are larger than Eastern gray squirrels and have a range of color variations, including reddish-brown, gray, and black. They are primarily found in North America, particularly in woodland areas.
  4. Flying Squirrel: Flying squirrels are a group of nocturnal squirrels that possess a specialized membrane between their limbs, allowing them to glide from tree to tree. They are found in various parts of the world and have adaptations for nighttime activity.

Squirrels play important ecological roles, such as seed dispersal and forest regeneration. While they are generally harmless and appreciated for their presence in natural and urban environments, they can sometimes cause minor damage, such as chewing on tree bark or accessing bird feeders.

Squirrels are abundant in the wild because their numbers far exceed the number of predators. The large population and decreasing natural habitat due to construction in many areas cause them to seek shelter in houses. The chilly months of fall and winter cause squirrels to seek the warmth that is found in attics. As Smart Pest Control, we carefully find their routes and hiding places and use professional bait to get rid of them. We don’t recommend our customers to try any method without the necessary knowledge.

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